Is open diaphyseal femur fracture managed by delayed interlocking intramedullary nail: A prudent choice?

Abstract

Objective: To review experience of delayed intramedullary nailing of open femur diaphyseal fractures in resource limited setting and to find out frequency of complications.
Methodology: Patients with open diaphyseal femur fracture were admitted through accident and emergency department. After initial resuscitation of the patients, emergency wound debridements were performed. Fractures were stabilized initially by applying skeletal traction. Subsequent debridements were done when indicated. Unreamed intramedullary nailing were done when there was no evidence of wound infection. After discharge, patients were followed up in out patient department every four weeks and complications noted. All patients were followed for at least 6 months.
Results: Forty five open fracture of femur shaft were treated by delayed intramedullary nailing. There were 32 males and 13 females with a mean age of 23